…Vivianne Cardinal assembled a group of renowned musicians whose improvising and accompanying prowess can’t be disputed. Saxophonist Phil Dwyer, trumpeter Steve McDade, drummer Billy Drummond, pianist Brian Buchanan and bassist Jim Vivian each contribute with precision and creativity.

The tunes arranged by Buchanan, take some fresh directions. Buchanan added the Latin rythmic tinge to Clifford Brown’s Daahoud and the horn line behind the melody of Kenny Dorhan’s Blue Rossa

… Make no mistake, this is a jazz CD. One that exhibits joy for the art form and appreciation of the melody. But, as Cardinal says, it’s also only the beginning.

Given how quickly her music has developed and the intensity at which she works, I’m inclined to take her word for it.

DUKE JORDAN / JUDY NIEMACK

1. That’s what I say

DAN MARTIN

2. In my dreams

BROWN / TURRENTINE / PRIESTER

3. Long as you’re living

ELLINGTON / LATOUCHE / STRAYHORN

4. Day dream

CHICK COREA / TONY COHAN

5. High wire (the aerialist)

BOBBY TROUPE / LEAH WORTH

6. Meaning of the blues

CLIFFORD BROWN / JUDY NIEMACK

7. Daahoud

DAN MARTIN

8. The blue in you

KENNY DORHAM / VIVIANNE CARDINAL

9. Blue bossa

ORNETTE COLEMAN / MARGO GURYAN

10. To welcome the day

CHICK COREA / NEVILLE POTTER

11. You’re everything